Posted: Aug 06, 2008
Yakima, WA, August 6, 2008 – Walker Bay® Boats Inc. launches four new models in the award winning Airis™ Inflatable Kayak line: the Angler, Tender, Velocity and Tandem.
“Produced using the same innovative AirWeb™ High Pressure Construction, each new Airis model is geared toward a specific market”, said Stefano Rista, VP –Business Development for Walker Bay Boats. “The Angler is designed specifically for kayak fishing, the Velocity is built for speed, the Tandem is perfect for couples and families, and the Tender is designed for boaters needing to transport people and gear.” Known as “the kayak-in-a-bag”, all Airis Kayaks come in a custom designed rip-stop nylon backpack. Lightweight, portable, and quick & easy to set up, all Airis Inflatable Kayaks are made from AirWeb™, the patented high-pressure construction formed from a heavy-duty seven layer polymer coated fabric that is joined inside by thousands of drop-stitch fibers, making it the world’s most rigid and compact inflatable kayak.
Angler - compact, versatile and loaded with features
The Angler’s durable hull has a wide body with moderate tapering at the bow and stern making it very stable and easy to haul in fish. The Angler comes fully equipped with two rod holders, several storage areas for tackle, integrated bungee cords, paddle holders to stow the paddle when fishing, foot rests and a bow line which can be used to secure a small anchor. In addition to this, Walker Bay has developed Versa-Track™ , a versatile accessory attachment system that runs down both sides of the kayak and comes with a 28 by 8 inch aluminum gear mount platform. The Versa-Track system has 32 separate attachment points to fasten ropes, bags and other equipment, and will also accommodate additional gear-mount platforms (sold separately) for adding more tools such as depth sounders, fish finders, down riggers or even swivel seats! There are several accessory options for the Angler such as the pneumatic wheel kit for launching and maneuvering on land. The wheels double as outriggers once moved into the paddling position, by remaining out of the water and only engaging for additional stability when needed. The Angler is available in yellow or camouflage.
Tender – utility meets excitement
The Tender is designed to go from ship to shore with gear & groceries while still offering the enjoyment of kayaking. It comes loaded with features such as an integrated bow storage compartment, holders to keep the paddle safe when ashore, a bowline for docking, storage bungees, integrated footrests and two removable skegs for excellent tracking and maximum portability. The stern cargo space also has the Versa-Track system for an optional platform and is ideal for a storage cart, as the bungee restraints keep it in place when fully loaded. The Tender also features Walker Bay’s exclusive Connect-a-Yak™, patent pending system that enables you to connect two or more boats bow-to-stern to create a tandem kayak, providing the option to paddle with others, fetch passengers, or haul more gear. The stern of each tender has a half circle indentation allowing it to hug the bow of the other tender and is then locked into position with an integrated loop and bar mechanism making it quick and easy.
Velocity - sporty and fast
The Velocity has a narrow beam and Sleek-Skin™ hull design that together maximize paddling efficiency, enabling it to glide through the water quickly and easily. A foot long skeg is positioned for consistent tracking and integrated footrests provide the paddler with support for a more powerful stroke, making longer journeys more comfortable. With an integrated storage compartment and bungee cords to hold gear and food, the Velocity is the ideal kayak for day trips.
Play Tandem – perfect for two
Part of the popular Play line, the tandem offers comfortable room for two. Multiple handles and d-rings enable the seats to be at any location in the kayak offering paddlers maximum flexibility for legroom. Still compact enough to fit in its own custom backpack, the Tandem can convert into a single paddler kayak by simply adjusting the seating arrangement. Other features include integrated bungee cords, drain plugs and handles for easy transport.
Packages, Pricing and Availability
The Angler is 12 feet in length and retails at $1,699 while the Velocity is $1,599 and 12 feet long. The Tandem retails for $1,499 and is 12 feet long. The Tender is 10 feet in length and retails at $1,699. All new kayaks have two seating options, the standard seat cushion and backrest, which retails for $49 or the deluxe extra padded seat cushion and backrest which retails for $99. Walker Bay stands behind all Airis Kayaks with a 2-year limited warranty. Airis will be launched to the trade this summer at Outdoor Retailer Show (Booth # 86018 on the Mezzanine Level) and will be in stores for November 2008. Contact Walker Bay Boats for more information www.AirisKayaks.com.
About Walker Bay Boats
For over 10 years, Walker Bay® has redefined the benchmark for small boats by combining the perfect balance of performance, aesthetics and engineering. Manufacturing an award winning line of exceptionally crafted motorboats, sailboats, rowboats, RIBs, inflatable rollups, and inflatable kayaks, Walker Bay® continues to push the boundaries of innovation with boats that are durable, versatile, practical and easy to use. With over 60,000 boats in use, Walker Bay is available in over 50 countries around the world and can be found on the web at walkerbay.com or AirisKayaks.com.
###Posted: Aug 06, 2008
